Kanye West allegedly hits man who shouted abuse at Kim

KANYE West allegedly hit a man who shouted abuse aimed at both him and his fiancee Kim Kardashian earlier today.

The 'New Slaves' rapper's fiancee was swamped by paparazzi in Beverly Hills this morning but things turned nasty when an 18-year-old man - who initially appeared to be helping her - reportedly started screaming abuse.

The unknown man is said to have first talked about the photographers, saying: "F**k these fa***t-ass n*****s," as he helped Kim into a building.

When she told him it was inappropriate to use the N-word, he turned on her and, according to TMZ.com, shouted: "F**k you bitch. Just trying to help you. Shut up n****r lover, stupid sl*t."

Kim then watched the man walk into a chiropractor's office, before calling Kanye. When the man realised who she was on the phone to, he reportedly shouted: "F**k you n****r".

Kanye appeared a short time later and went into the chiropractor's waiting room, where the alleged altercation took place. Witnesses claim Kanye punched the 18-year-old while Kim told him: "We have it all on tape."

A massage therapist at the practice then broke up the two men and the police were called. The man said he wanted to press charges against Kanye.

A police spokesperson has confirmed the 'Stronger' star is now a suspect in a battery investigation and wanted for interview. The incident may also be referred to the Los Angeles County District Attorney for prosecution.

Kanye is already in trouble for allegedly assaulting a photographer at a Los Angeles airport in July last year. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal battery and attempted grand theft, but the case is yet to be resolved.